Coronavirus Hardship Fund for England’s Dairy Farmers Launches Soon

Coronavirus Hardship Fund for England’s Dairy Farmers Launches Soon

The dairy industry is the UK’s largest farming sector, with milk accounting for around 17% of total agricultural output in 2018. Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, the industry has faced challenges of excess milk, falling prices and reduced demand from the hospitality sector.

The upcoming Dairy Farmers Coronavirus Hardship Fund will enable farmers in England to access funding to help them overcome the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. The new funding will support farmers, who together continue to produce over 40 million litres of milk every day, and have seen decreased demand for their products as bars, restaurants and cafes have had to close.

While many farmers have already rerouted their milk supplies to retailers and supermarkets, which have seen increased demand in recent weeks, this scheme aims to give farmers in the greatest need the financial assurance to ensure they can remain operational, sustain production capacity and continue to meet animal welfare demands at this time.

Eligible farmers will be entitled to up to £10,000 each, to cover 70% of their lost income during April and May.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said:

‘Our dairy industry plays a crucial role in feeding our nation and we are doing all we can to ensure they are properly supported during this time.

‘We’ve already relaxed competition laws so dairy farmers can work together through the toughest months, but recognise there is more to be done.

‘We will continue to stand alongside our dairy farmers through this difficult period.’

The scheme is yet to open. More detail will be issued in due course.

More information about this funding opportunity and the application process is available on the GRANTfinder funding information platform. GRANTfinder provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on funding news. To find out more about how GRANTfinder can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.